September 8 – Professor Stuart Croft, President of the University of Warwick, a leading UK research-intensive university, led a delegation to the Eastern Institute of Technology, Ningbo (EIT) to explore new opportunities for academic and research collaboration between China and UK.
The welcoming ceremony was chaired by Academician Shiyi Chen, President of EIT and Member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. He highlighted three landmark achievements: this visit marked the first by the president of the University of Warwick to EIT, and the first by any international university president to EIT's permanent campus. Additionally, it made the University of Warwick the first international partner to establish a joint Ph.D. program with EIT. He emphasized that these milestones reflect not only the robust relationship between the two institutions but also the beginning of a new, substantive phase of partnership.
In his address, President Stuart Croft noted that the University of Warwick is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year and has been known for its innovative spirit since its establishment. President Shiyi Chen responded that as a new-type research university, EIT shares a similar vision and ethos, with innovation serving as a cornerstone of the collaboration. Both parties reviewed the progress of the joint PhD program, whose inaugural cohort commenced their studies this autumn. The two universities plan to deepen cooperation in talent development, scientific research, and academic exchange, contributing to a new chapter in UK–China higher education collaboration.
The delegation included Prof. Sai Gu, Vice President of the University of Warwick and Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering, alongside senior officials responsible for global strategy. EIT was represented by Prof. Chunmiao Zheng, Vice President for Global Engagement, Prof. Chuanwu Xi, Vice Provost for Global Engagement, and Head of the Graduate School and Global Engagement Office.
About the University of Warwick
Established in 1965, the University of Warwick is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Renowned for its outstanding achievements, the university has firmly established itself among the world’s leading higher education institutions. Consistently ranked among top ten in the UK, it is distinguished by outstanding performance in graduate salaries, high-skilled employment rates, and research quality. University of Warwick is internationally recognized for the strength of its Business School (WBS), Department of Economics, Mathematics, and Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), with strength in engineering, computer science, and life sciences. A founding member of the Russell Group, the university is known for its research-intensive ethos, global outlook, and commitment to collaborative innovation, standing as one of the most dynamic and influential universities both in the UK and worldwide.
